Burnham-On-Sea RNLI lifeboat station has taken delivery of a brand new inshore lifeboat this week.
The Atlantic 85 boat, called Doris Day and Brian, replaces Burnham’s former lifeboat, Staines Whitfield, which had been in service for 15 years.
The new lifeboat is one metre longer with more powerful engines and it features improvements such as radio direction finding and radar. It is also faster, and carries seats for a crew of four.
The station’s crew have this week been receiving training on how to use the new vessel, which will go into service shortly.
Burnham-On-Sea RNLI Operations Manager Matt Davies told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Now that the boat and all her equipment has arrived a week of familiarisation starts for the crew, both afloat and ashore.”
“The team have all made a great start on this and training continues throughout this week. The RNLI staff will constantly be assessing the team so the boat can be used to its full potential once on service at the end of the week. I take my hat off to all the crew for their commitment and dedication.”
The old boat Staines Whitfield is presently being repaired for operation in the RNLI relief fleet.
“Staines Whitfield has given dependable service since its delivery in December 2003, but lifeboats are hard-working and replacement this year was inevitable,” added Matt.
Pictured: The new lifeboat arrives in Burnham-On-Sea. Photo: RNLI/Mike Lang
